Instant Pot Sushi Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever tried making sushi rice at home, you’ve probably heard how “tricky” it can be. 

It’s not like cooking regular rice—it requires careful preparation to achieve the right stickiness and flavor. But with an Instant Pot, making perfect sushi rice is much easier than you’d think!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from selecting the right ingredients to step-by-step instructions and tips for storage. Let’s get cooking!

Why We Love This Recipe

Simple and Reliable

Making sushi rice in an Instant Pot is quick, hassle-free, and gives consistent results every time.

Healthy and Versatile

Sushi rice is naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and a great base for rolls, bowls, and other creative meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need For Sushi Rice

Before you start, gather the following ingredients for sushi rice that’s just like the kind served at your favorite Japanese restaurant:

Sushi Rice

• Use authentic sushi rice, a short-grain variety that becomes sticky when cooked.
• Avoid substituting with jasmine, basmati, or long-grain rice—they won’t have the right texture.
• Can’t find sushi rice at your local store? Try Asian markets or look for online options.

Rice Vinegar

• Rice vinegar is the key to sushi rice’s signature tangy flavor.
• For better control of sweetness and saltiness, use plain rice vinegar and mix in sugar and salt yourself. Pre-mixed sushi vinegar works in a pinch but offers less flexibility.

Sugar and Salt

• These balance the vinegar’s tanginess, creating sushi rice’s subtle, sweet-savory flavor.
• Fine-grain sugar and salt dissolve more easily, so they’re ideal for this recipe.

Water

• Use filtered or clean tap water for cooking to avoid any unwanted flavors in your rice.

Step-by-Step Instructions To Make Sushi Rice In An Instant Pot

1. Rinse the Rice

Rinsing is crucial for removing excess starch and ensuring your sushi rice doesn’t become gummy.

• Measure 1 cup of sushi rice into a large bowl.
• Add cold water, then swirl the rice gently with your hands. The water will look cloudy at first.
• Drain the water and repeat this process 6–7 times, or until the water runs clear.
• Once rinsed, drain the rice in a fine-mesh sieve for at least 5 minutes to remove excess water.

2. Cook the Rice in the Instant Pot

Cooking sushi rice in an Instant Pot is fast and foolproof.

• Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot with 1¼ cups of water.
• Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 5 minutes.
• After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.

3. Prepare the Sushi Seasoning

While the rice cooks, prepare the vinegar mixture that will give your sushi rice its flavor.

• In a small saucepan, combine:
  • 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
• Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Do not let the mixture boil.
• Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

4. Mix the Rice and Seasoning

• Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large, shallow bowl (a wide surface helps cool the rice faster).
• Pour the vinegar mixture evenly over the rice.
• Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the rice to combine. Avoid mashing or overmixing—you want the rice to stay fluffy while absorbing the seasoning.

5. Cool the Rice

• Allow the rice to cool to room temperature before using it for sushi rolls, poke bowls, or other dishes.
• For faster cooling, fan the rice gently while folding.

Top Sushi Rice Tips

The first time you make sushi rice, it can be tricky, so follow our tips to get it spot on:

• Be Patient with Rinsing: Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water is clear—this step is key for perfect texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality rice and vinegar for the best flavor.
• Storage: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge and use within 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to restore its texture.

Serving Ideas For Sushi Rice

1. California Rolls

A classic sushi roll with creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and nori. Perfect for beginners!

2. Poke Bowls

Layer sushi rice with marinated tofu, fresh veggies, and sesame seeds for a hearty, customizable meal.

3. Onigiri

Shape seasoned rice into triangles or balls and wrap in nori for a portable snack.

Final Thoughts

With this recipe, making sushi rice at home doesn’t have to be intimidating. An Instant Pot simplifies the process, so you can enjoy perfectly sticky, flavorful rice anytime. 

Whether you’re crafting sushi rolls or experimenting with poke bowls, this guide has you covered.

Now it’s time to roll up your sleeves (and your sushi) and enjoy your homemade creations!